I HEART New York

It all started with a late-night flight to New York City and an early morning cab ride to Murray Street. Brad and I were so excited to visit Ryan, Shanna, and Kenna in their new New York City home.

The first day consisted of a quick run for Shanna and a quick doctor trip for Kenna by Ryan and us. After a medicine run, we were ready for our excursion to the temple. It was our first trip to the Manhattan Temple and we loved it!

The temple session was followed by a walk to the Earthen Oven, an Indian restaurant close by the temple It was yummy! I would recommend the halibut!

Saturday, after a 5K race by Ryan and Shanna, we wandered through the Ground Zero area and Wall Street. Ryan knew about this wonderful little family style Italian Pizza place called Harry's. It was yummy, too! Once again, the Margarita pizza was the best!

Subway rides are the best!

Sunday was Valentine's Day and we had a delightful time at church. Shanna made a wonderful pork tenderloin dinner and we had cousin Miranda come and join us. She is attending Pace University. It was great to see her! She's a beautiful young lady.

We did have time for a story or two between watching Olympic events.

And no visit to New York City would be complete without a burger from the Shake Shack.

New York will forever be a wonderful part of our lives now.

We love this sweet, little family. They have made a wonderful little home and we felt so comfortable, welcomed and loved.

Thanks, Ryan, Shanna and Kenna for a fabulous New York City weekend.

And we even made it to the airport all by ourselves on the subway and airtrain (with a little coaching from Ryan)!

Nanny

I love my mom! She is also known as Nanny to her grandkids and Barbara to her friends.

One of the hardest aspects of going on our mission was knowing I wasn't going to be able to spend time with her. We had our telephone calls and I did come back three times for weddings but it just wasn't the same. I think we are making up for it now.

We have our trips to get her hair done and doctor's appointments, the random eating out and, of course, shopping. Last week we made our first trip to Five Guys/Burgers and Fries. We had a yummy cheeseburger with all the fixins' along with some fries and, of course, peanuts. It was fun!

My mother has taught me so much.......from sewing, beauty tips (isn't she beautiful for being 86 years old), raising children, keeping a nice house, hosting....I could go on and on. But I think the thing she has taught me the most is how to serve and help others, especially my family. She is a wonderful example of Christlike charity. She has taught me the Gospel of Jesus Christ and I am so thankful. I love my mom! She really is my best friend and I'm looking forward to the years to come and the things I will continue to learn from her. I hope I can have the same kind of relationship with my girls. Thanks, mom. You're amazing!